Many of you might be familiar with the benefits that Java has to offer. It is a very versatile program and can quickly solve intricate tasks. That is why it is so popular. Scala has begun to gain the upper hand over the years, and many organizations are looking to migrate from Java to Scala. This technology comes with numerous benefits. Not only is the program extremely robust, but it also provides better coding output, offers asynchronous processing and options to prevent or avoid deadlock, among other benefits.
But migrating from Java to Scala is not as easy as it seems. On the way, you will have to overcome numerous challenges and difficulties. So let us talk about these challenges in detail to make your migration process smooth and enjoyable.
Limited pool of developers
As an organization, you might have difficulty finding the right talent—one of the biggest challenges every organization faces. But with Scala, this problem may become more profound because, for many developers, Scala is still a new language. So getting developers proficient in the language may pose a challenge. Java to Scala migration can be time-consuming and costly because you will have to impart training to developers. The concepts of Scala are not only complex but significantly different as compared to those of Java. So even though developers may be proficient in Java, they will find Scala initially tough and may take some time to adapt. Until and unless the use of Scala becomes widespread and new developers are educated in this language, getting a talented pool of Scala-proficient developers will be problematic.
Learning curve
Though Java code can be easily analyzed and read, it is very lengthy. In comparison, Scala has a much smaller language, giving the impression that it is much easier to learn than Java. Though these indeed are significant advantages, the reality is otherwise. Scala embodies specific programs and features that are highly complex. Though these concepts can be learned over time, migrating from Java to Scala can be challenging for many developers and organizations due to its steep learning curve.
It does not encourage you to think functionally.
For every developer, whether an amateur or professional, functional thinking is critical. But with Scala, this becomes a bit difficult.
Scala gives you the liberty to switch back to an object-oriented paradigm whenever you want. This does not encourage the developer to think functionally.
Tool immaturity
If you are a first-timer, there is a high probability that you may find working on Scala a cumbersome and frustrating experience. This is because Scala’s developer tools, such as IDE plugins and others, are not as advanced and sophisticated as the tools supported by Java. But there is no need to fret. Over some time and with experience, this issue can be overcome.
Initially, you may find it tough to adapt to Scala, but in due course of time, you will find the language engaging, well organized, and highly productive. Due to its benefits, Scala is now used by some of the world’s leading companies.
Partnering with companies like Knoldus can make it much easier to adapt to the evolving technologies. Comprising some of the best brains in the Scala expertise, the company can assist you by providing services ranging from data strategy and analytics to platform strategy, intelligence-driven decisioning, as well as resilient software architecture.
Also published on Medium.
